Continuously evolving to address the needs of today's students, the HODGES' HARBRACE HANDBOOK, 17th Edition, guides student writers in developing their understanding of the rhetorical situation. This understanding enables even students with minimal experience or confidence in their writing to learn to write more effectively--to choose the most pertinent information, arrange it well, and use the most appropriate language when writing for any audience. This grammar-first handbook provides comprehensive coverage of grammar, style, punctuation, mechanics, writing, and research--all presented in the context of rhetorical concerns including the writer, reader, message, context, and exigence (reason for writing). This edition has been updated to reflect guidelines from the 2009 MLA HANDBOOK FOR WRITERS OF RESEARCH PAPERS, SEVENTH EDITION.